- Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, making him the only Nigerian on the 30-man list
- Only eight Nigerian players had been nominated for the Ballon d'Or since the inception
- Notably, Nwankwo Kanu was nominated twice, in 1996 and 1999, during his time at Arsenal and Inter Milan
The Ballon d'Or, regarded as the most prestigious individual accolade in football, is awarded annually to the best male and female footballers globally. Since its inception in 1956, only a few Nigerian players have made it into the coveted nominees list.
In a proud moment for Nigerian football, Ademola Lookman has been named among the 30 footballers shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, the honour given by France Football to recognise the best footballer in the world. At just 25 years old, Lookman stands as the sole Nigerian representative on the list.
Over the years, the Ballon d'Or has featured eight Nigerian players, especially since the mid-nineties when Nigeria's football prowess began to shine globally.
Lookman now joins this elite club following a stellar season in which he played a crucial role in leading Atalanta to the UEFA Europa League final and helped the Super Eagles reach the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The first Nigerian footballers to earn nominations for the Ballon d'Or were Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi, and the legendary Austin Jay-Jay Okocha in 1995.
Notably, Nwankwo Kanu was nominated twice, once in 1996 while at Arsenal and again in 1999 during his time at Inter Milan.
In 2023, Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala made headlines by becoming the first Nigerian male and female players to be nominated in the same year.
Osimhen’s nomination came after a remarkable season with Napoli, where he netted 26 goals in Serie A, while Oshoala was recognized for her contributions to Barcelona, helping them win both the Women’s Champions League and the Spanish League.
9 Nigerians nominated for Ballon d’Or
TheRadar has compiled below a list of Nigerians who have been ever nominated for the prestigious French award:
1. Finidi George (1995)
The ex-Real Betis winger earned a Ballon d'Or nomination in 1995, courtesy of his impressive performances with Ajax. His efforts were instrumental in the club's triumph in the UEFA Champions League.
2. Daniel Amokachi (1995)
Super Eagles legend, Daniel Amokachi, also found himself on the 1995 Ballon d'Or shortlist. His impactful season with Everton in the Premier League, where he helped the team secure the FA Cup, earned him the nomination.
3. Austin Jay-Jay Okocha (1995)
Renowned for his dazzling footwork, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha received his Ballon d'Or nod in 1995. At the time, he was showcasing his talent at Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga, where his performances were nothing short of captivating.
4. Nwankwo Kanu (1996, 1999)
Nwankwo Kanu made history by becoming the first Nigerian player to be nominated twice for the Ballon d'Or. His first nomination came in 1996 after he captained the Dream Team to Olympic gold. He received another nomination in 1999.
5. Victor Ikpeba (1997)
Nicknamed the ‘Prince of Monaco,’ Victor Ikpeba got a Ballon d'Or nomination in 1997. He had a stellar season at Monaco in Ligue 1, making significant contributions with goals in both the league and UEFA Cup competitions.
6. Sunday Oliseh (1998)
Former Juventus midfielder, Sunday Oliseh, earned a Ballon d'Or nomination in 1998. His standout performances for Ajax Amsterdam in the Eredivisie and with the Super Eagles at the FIFA World Cup in France were the key reasons for his recognition.
7. Asisat Oshoala (2022, 2023)
Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala has been honoured with two Ballon d'Or nominations. Her first recognition came in 2022, followed by another in 2023. Oshoala’s accolades include winning the treble with Barcelona and guiding the Super Falcons to the round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
8. Victor Osimhen (2023)
Victor Osimhen earned his debut Ballon d'Or nomination in 2023. His phenomenal season at Napoli, where he netted 26 goals to secure the Serie A title after a 33-year drought, played a pivotal role. He also added five goals in the UEFA Champions League, helping Napoli reach the quarterfinals.
Super Eagles striker Ademola Lookman to miss season opener amidst PSG links
Previously, TheRadar reported that Lookman, who turns 27 in October, has been linked with a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The French giants have shown strong interest in the winger, particularly after his stellar performances in the UEFA Europa League.
According to reports, PSG have made contact with Lookman’s representatives, with the player reportedly keen on the move to Paris.
